The University of Missouri Veterinary Health Center is seeking dogs with cancer for a clinical trial to treat cachexia, a wasting syndrome that causes one-third of cancer deaths. File photo by Rich Sugg rsugg@kcstar.com

By Andy Marso
amarso@kcstar.com

The University of Missouri’s Veterinary Health Center is seeking cancer-stricken canines to test a drug researchers hope will let dogs — and maybe someday humans — live longer.

The university is running clinical trials in partnership with Tensive Controls Inc. on a medication for cachexia, a wasting syndrome that causes about one-third of cancer deaths.

Cachexia occurs with advanced cancers, causes loss of appetite and can lead to multiorgan failure.

“The clinical trial is targeting a disease that significantly decreases quality of life,” said Sandra Bechtel, the Missouri professor who is leading the study. “We are working to improve end-stage quality of life for our veterinary patients with the hopes of translating the improvements to human patients.”